AFCON: What Ighalo, Osimhen’s absence will do to Super Eagles – Julius Aghahowa

Former Nigerian striker, Julius Aghahowa, has said that the absence of Odion Ighalo and Victor Osimhen remains a major blow to the Super Eagles ahead of their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, opening tie against Egypt on Tuesday.

Aghahowa disclosed this in an interview with Brila FM, where he expressed displeasure with the absence of the two strikers from the tournament, adding that the opportunity lies on Taiwo Awoniyi and Sadiq Umar to prove themselves at the 2021 AFCON.

Ighalo, whose Saudi Arabian club, Al Shabab, didn’t permit his participation in the tournament, joins Osimhen to miss the showpiece in Cameroon.

“It is a blow to the national team that Odion Ighalo could not make it to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. And also, the other player (Victor Osimhen) that didn’t make it is also a blow for us. But as it is, we have to make do of what we have at the moment,” Aghahowa said.

“Those players are professionals and they are playing in their teams in Europe. And that is what is expected of them when you are called to represent your country, you have to give in your best.

“You have to prove that you are worthy of that call. So now, the opportunity lies on the shoulder of Taiwo Awoniyi and Sadiq Umar.”